It's A Luxurious Holiday Staycation

By Kathy Condon Journalist, Travel Writer www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

Palm Springs and the other eight other cities in Coachella Valley are experiencing an unprecedented growth of visitors. Visitors want to relax and soak up the sun in this tropical desert paradise, advertising it has 350 days a year.

Plus, there is an influx of people moving here and making the Valley their home. People have discovered that the views, activities, and weather continue to cause a sense of awe each day. Interspersed with clouds, the sun often provides an ever-changing scene on the surrounding mountains.

Staycation at Omni Rancho Las Palmas

Amid a hectic schedule with limited open days on my calendar, a delightful opportunity presented itself in the form of an invitation from a public relations firm. The proposal was to experience a luxurious stay at the Omni Rancho Las Palmas.

With no restrictions imposed by the public relations firm, the stage was set for a rejuvenating staycation at this upscale resort. Admittedly, I had never been on the resort’s grounds, so that it would be a new adventure nine miles from my Palm Springs residence.

Arrival at the Luxury Resort and Spa

Arriving at the Omni Rancho Las Palmas, I drove through the well-landscape driveway profuse with flowers, all the way to the covered grand entrance. I exited the car and walked into a high-ceiling lobby with overstuffed chairs and a giant centerpiece of white orchid plants of various heights proudly displayed on a dark, round wooden table. Check-in went smoothly. I was instructed to head out the door and follow Chris in the golf cart to the parking lot, where my car would stay for 2.5 days without moving it. I felt there would be plenty to do to keep me occupied, and I proved right.

Room with a view

While opening the door to my room, I witnessed the sunlight beaming in at the far end through the French doors. I put my suitcase on the stand and explored the expansive space that would be my staycation home.

I walked to the French doors, which opened to a patio with a small table and chairs. I sat down and observed the scene before me while the birds were happily tweeting in the nearby trees. Straight ahead of me was a pond surrounded by tall palm trees, welcoming the swans and ducks enjoying a leisurely morning in the Valley.

The amenities in the room, including a Keurig coffee maker, filled water bottles, and luxurious linens, set the stage for an indulgent retreat.

Culinary Delights at bluEmber Restaurant

Dinner - I invited two Palm Springs residents and friends to share dinner with me. I knew they had not been to the Omni Rancho Las Palmas grounds.

When I arrived for our dinner reservation at the bluEmber, they were already seated and waiting for one of the craft cocktails created by the mixologist. They marveled about the resort and hadn’t even had a tour.

Unfortunately, the patio was closed due to extreme heat, but the indoor ambiance was enchanting.

Delectable appetizers and main courses, including salmon and braised short ribs, left an indelible impression. We had no reluctance, having boxed up what could not be consumed because the chef’s creations were too good to leave a morsel behind.

Lunch - It was time to catch up with another local, so I invited her to lunch. Again, she arrived and was pleasantly surprised at the resort’s ambiance.

The luncheon menu offered a variety of items, but both of us ordered the Cobb salad. It was indeed one of the best Cobb salads I have ever tasted. We paired it with a glass of Pino Grigio. We both agreed it was an outstanding lunch.

Breakfast at the Resort

With large meals for dinner, there was no craving for a big breakfast. Thus, I went to the deli-like Palms Café directly across the courtyard from the bluEmber.

I was delighted with my yogurt cup topped with generous fresh fruit and sprinkled with granola. If you want to eat poolside, there are a variety of options.

The Spa

When one thinks of relaxing, one cannot help but think about getting a massage to help relieve the tension built up during an active lifestyle.

My appointment was made, and I headed to the spa’s serene environment. I intended to take full advantage of the space with a sauna, hot tub, and steam room.

My relaxation continued with a blissful massage by Stephanie. She used organic lotions with delightful aromas. Walking out of there, I smiled, acknowledging I was getting into this whole staycation thing.

Walking to the private courtyard of the spa, I found a lounge at the pool. It was time to stretch out, just be, and enjoy the day’s warmth.

Environment or Poolside Lounging

Plus, the spa pool there are three other pools stretched out over the property. Each of them has a different ambiance.

The pool off to the right of the outside exit of the stunning lobby has Caribbean-type music wafting over the area. It is the perfect place for anyone to relax and pretend they are lounging on some tropical island.

While I haven’t experienced it, I can only imagine the pool area with a waterslide and lazy river would be an outstanding hit with children. This pool area is a space where you can spend an entire day.

The third pool is a golf cart ride away. In this environment, you can curl up with your book and observe the quiet, except for the birds singing, while your drinks are brought to you.

As my staycation drew close, I reflected on the relaxing experience. I hadn’t opened my computer. I made no work phone calls. I had in-person conversations over meals with friends I hold dear, something I rarely do.

My body felt relaxed, and I could tell creativity was once again revived. The staff provided me with everything I needed and more.

After dinner on my last night, an espresso martini awaited me in my room, underscoring that a luxury resort staycation’s special touches offer more than relaxation.

You can imagine, this relaxed, happy woman was all smiles on her way home.